Diverse royalty: Disney introduces first Polynesian princess

Princess Moana will follow in the diverse footsteps of Jasmine, Mulan, Pocahontas and Tiana

21/08/2015 09:36 AM

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MEET MOANA: Disney have unveiled their new Polynesian princess

IT'S ALREADY been six years since Disney introduced its first ever black princess, and now the film company has unveiled it s first Polynesian princess.

Following other diverse Disney princess including Aladdin's Jasmine and Chinese warrior Mulan, the studio took another step in its multicultural quest by unveiling its first ever Polynesian princess at its D23 Expo at Disneyland.

The CGI animated film, entitled Moana should hit cinemas late next year.

The movie's titular main character Moana Waialiki is a seafaring enthusiast, which is handy as she is also the only daughter of a chief in a long line of navigators.

In a picture showing off the character she is shown standing proudly with an oar while dressed in traditional clothing.

In line with the likes of Pixar movie Brave's Princess Merida, her character is expected to be both spirited and independent.

But it appears that will not stop her getting a little help, as she will encounter a powerful demigod named Maui, who will be voiced by none other than The Rock himself Dwayne Johnson.

HERITAGE: The Rock aka Dwayne Johnson

The 43-year-old former WWE star's is in fact a member of Polynesian aristocracy, as his mother Ata Fitisemanu Maivia is a descendant of Samoan chiefs. In 2004 he was even given the noble title of Seiuli by Samoa's head of state Malietoa Tanumafili II during his visit to the country, the Mail Online reported.

The Disney story will follow Moana as she embarks on a mission to find a mythical island in Oceania, during which she will encounters Maui, as well as many creatures with good and ill intentions alike.

Veteran Disney moviemakers Ron Clements and John Musker are heading up the film, and have previous credits on the likes of The Little Mermaid and The Princess And The Frog - which starred the first ever black princess Tiana.

NEW CHARACTER: Moana should be released next year

Posted on: 21/08/2015 09:36 AM

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